Fauxquets is one of those places you wish you'd discovered sooner. It's a rural haven entirely in keeping with the laid-back but efficient nature of Guernsey. The campsite sits in a sheltered position overlooking the wooded Fauxquets Valley, its tranquillity enhanced by careful terracing, shrub borders, and ever-present trees. Nothing is overdone, but everything you could want is here, from roomy pitches to a small shop, efficient showers, and a swimming pool. And if you come by plane or don't fancy lugging lots of gear along with you, then pre-erected tents are available, too.

Guests can help themselves to herbs from the small herb garden, and the shop offers zero-food-mile eggs laid by the campsite chickens, as well as locally produced ice cream, cheese, and cider. The play area is small, but there are sports nets, the pool-with its large sunbathing area - and Molly the bounding campsite dog, to entertain the kids.

There's a friendly onsite atmosphere and the feeling that you're always close to nature; trees are all around, and the Terrace area overlooks the valley-a mixture of farmland and natural woods rolling down to meet the stream tinkling along the bottom.

Guernsey is easy to get around; a few minutes of walking and you're deep into its rural charms. Vazon Bay, a broad sweep of sand with more beaches either side, is a 20-minute walk away. There's also a 28-mile coastal path to wander, and bicycle exploration is a must. Hire one from the site and take to the quiet and joyously twisty lanes.

No attraction is too far away on Guernsey.

COOL FACTOR Tranquil rural setting and convivial, cosmopolitan atmosphere on Guernsey.

WHO'S IN? Tents, dogs (on leads), big groups (families/ activities-based only) - yes. Campervans, caravans, young/ single-sex groups - no.

ON SITE Just over 100 pitches, all with hook-ups (£3.50) bar a small comer called Outback and the Terrace (with unmarked pitches and great views). There's a toilet block with free hot showers, washing-up area, laundry (token operated), games room with TV, swimming pool, play areas. Pre-erected tents and log cabins. The Haybam restaurant on site has some takeaway choices. Cycle hire; small shop; free wi-fi on the reception veranda. No campfires, but BBQs okay.

OFF SITE Go to St Peter Port for the Guernsey Aquarium (01481 723301) and Victor Hugo's Hauteville House (01481 721911). Or, on a fine day, take a boat trip to the Isle of Herm (details at the quayside). Walking cards detailing routes around the area are available from the campsite.

FOOD AND DRINK The Last Post (01481 236353) is the nearest pub - a 20-minute walk inland. For foodies: Fleur du Jardin (01481 257996; www.fleurdujardin.com) for fresh, seasonal food including locally sourced meat and fish; Auberge duVal (01481 263862); or the Farmhouse Restaurant (01481 264181). Look out for boxed 'hedge veg' for honesty buys.

GETTING THERE Take a ferry or fly to the island then head for the St Andrews district. Candie Road starts near St Andrews Church. The site entrance sign is hard to spot.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Bus no. 7 stops closest to the site, at Vazon Bay. Taxis available - mainly from St Peter Port.
OPEN May-September.

THE DAMAGE Adult £8-£10.50 per night (depending on season and pitch size); child (4 to 14) half price, under-4s free.